NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. When reviewing the demographics of ethnic groups in the United States, which group does the nurse recall as the largest and fastest-growing population?
- A. Asian
- B. Hispanic
- C. American Indian
- D. African American/Black
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hispanic.' Hispanics are the largest and fastest-growing population in the United States. While African Americans/Blacks, Asians, American Indians, and other groups are significant, Hispanics currently represent the largest demographic group. African American/Black, Asian, and American Indian populations are substantial but not as large or fast-growing as the Hispanic population. Therefore, Hispanic is the most appropriate choice in this scenario.
2. Why should a palpated pressure be performed before auscultating blood pressure?
- A. To more clearly hear the Korotkoff sounds.
- B. To detect the presence of an auscultatory gap.
- C. To avoid missing a falsely elevated blood pressure.
- D. To more readily identify phase IV of the Korotkoff sounds.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Performing a palpated pressure before auscultating blood pressure helps in detecting the presence of an auscultatory gap. An auscultatory gap is a period during blood pressure measurement when Korotkoff sounds temporarily disappear before reappearing. Inflation of the cuff 20 to 30 mm Hg beyond the point where a palpated pulse disappears helps in identifying this gap. This technique ensures accurate blood pressure measurement by preventing the underestimation of blood pressure values. The other options are incorrect because palpating the pressure is not primarily done to hear Korotkoff sounds more clearly, avoid missing falsely elevated blood pressure, or readily identify a specific phase of Korotkoff sounds.
3. A client is preparing to irrigate a colostomy. Which of the following situations is a contraindication for this type of irrigation?
- A. The client has an incontinent ostomy
- B. The client has an irregular bowel routine
- C. The client has diverticulitis
- D. The colostomy bag contains fecal material
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a client with a colostomy is preparing for irrigation, it is essential to consider contraindications that could pose risks or worsen the client's condition. Diverticulitis is a contraindication for colostomy irrigation because the inflamed diverticula could be further irritated by the flushing action during irrigation, potentially leading to complications. An incontinent ostomy, irregular bowel routine, or presence of fecal material in the colostomy bag are not specific contraindications for irrigation and can be managed through appropriate techniques and interventions.
4. Which playroom activities should the nurse organize for a small group of 7-year-old hospitalized children?
- A. Sports and games with rules.
- B. Finger paints and water play.
- C. "Dress-up"? clothes and props.
- D. Chess and television programs
Correct answer: A
Rationale: For 7-year-old children, play serves an important role in developing cooperation, logical reasoning, and social skills. Organizing sports and games with rules is beneficial as it helps children understand the importance of rules, promotes teamwork, and fosters social interactions. Finger paints and water play, while fun, may not target the specific developmental needs of this age group. Similarly, 'Dress-up' clothes and props can encourage imaginative play but may not necessarily promote cooperation and logical reasoning. Chess and television programs are more suited for older children and may not engage 7-year-olds as effectively in developing the desired skills.
5. To accurately assess a patient's respiration rate, which of the following methods would be BEST?
- A. Tell the patient, 'Please remain silent while I count your number of breaths.'
- B. Count respirations at the same time you are counting the pulse rate
- C. Count the pulse rate for one minute, then, while keeping your index fingers on the patient's radial artery, count the respirations for an additional minute.
- D. Count the patient's respiration rate, then take the patient's temperature, and then take the pulse rate.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The most accurate method to assess a patient's respiration rate is to count the breaths simultaneously while counting the pulse rate. This approach ensures that the patient is unaware of the specific focus on their breathing, preventing any conscious alteration in breathing patterns. Choice A is incorrect because informing the patient may lead to altered breathing as the patient may consciously change their breathing pattern. Choice C involves counting the pulse rate first, which is not necessary for assessing respiration rate. Choice D is incorrect as it includes unnecessary steps such as taking the patient's temperature before counting respiration rate, which adds no value to accurately assessing the respiration rate.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
NCLEX RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access
NCLEX RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
- 30 days access